Pat Glynn is making his mark in the Premier Division of the Birmingham League, after an amazing 30 year break from the sport. He is representing the Smiths Wood club along with Alan Caffery, Michael Browne and Helen Turner.

The former Ireland No 2 was a star in the competition when the city had the top league in the UK, with international players travelling from various parts of the country to compete. in the 1970’s.

“I was selected to play for Ireland in Switzerland, could not make it because of business commitments and I did not play again until earlier this year.” said the talented penholder.

“There are some very good players in Birmingham and I do not want to compare or talk too much about what the game was like in the past. “I love playing again and aim to improve enough to make a mark on the national scene in my age group.”

The 61 year old has already beaten quality players such as Rob Sheldon, Lindon Douglas and Amit Ubhi in the Birmingham League, whilst also winning 5/6 so for Birmingham B in the Midland League.

“The serving these days is of a very high standard, it is difficult to tell with the top players if top spin or chop is being used,” stated Glynn. “It’s a challenge to solve that particular problem, but it won’t be for lack of trying.”

He represented Chan Construction in the British League in his last season at the top level, alongside England international Ralph Gunnion, Staffordshire No 1 Andy Bellingham and former England No 1 Trevor Taylor.

Former world veteran champion Colum Slevin teamed up with Glynn in most of his 20 international appearances, with the popular Glynn also playing in the German Bundesliga for a number of seasons.

In the Midland league vets Glynn teams up with Sheldon and Paul Hancox for Birmingham B, with the team currently top of Division Two, following comfortable wins over Birmingham A and Telford.

He will be a strong addition on the national veterans scene, joining England O60’s players Ray Dixon and Roy Norton and world O75 doubles champion Mervyn Wood in the West Midlands contingent.